US missiles hit Iran's Qeshm Island amid escalation

The United States conducted a missile strike near Iran's strategic Qeshm Island late Thursday, according to Iranian media, intensifying military actions in the Gulf amid rising regional tensions. The semi-official Tasnim news agency reported the strike hit the area around 11:50 p.m. local time (2020GMT), near Masan village on the southern island.

Iranian authorities are currently investigating the incident and assessing any potential damage or casualties. Details regarding immediate impacts were not immediately available. This event marks a significant escalation in the ongoing military exchanges between Washington and Tehran.

The U.S. has been carrying out strikes within Iran, while Iran has responded with missile and drone attacks targeting U.S. military installations across the region. These actions underscore the volatile security situation in the Middle East.

In parallel, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that it has redirected 12 commercial vessels and disabled one since reinstating its naval blockade on Iran nine days prior. The blockade aims to prevent ships from entering or leaving Iranian ports and coastal waters, further tightening maritime control in the strategic waterway.